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That this world’s general sickness doth not lie In any…

“That this world’s general sickness doth not lie In any humour, or one certain part; But as thou sawest it rotten at the heart, Thou seest a hectic fever hath got hold Of the whole substance, not to be controlled, And that thou hast but one way, not to admit The world’s infection, to be none of it.” quote by John Donne
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““That this world’s general sickness doth not lie In any humour, or one certain part; But as thou sawest it rotten at the heart, Thou seest a hectic fever hath got hold Of the whole substance, not to be controlled, And that thou hast but one way, not to admit The world’s infection, to be none of it.””

John Donne

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The world is diseased throughout, not just in one part, and we cannot ignore its infection without becoming part of it.

In simple terms: The world is wholly sick, and denial spreads it.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge and address systemic problems.

Themes

mortality corruption human condition denial

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • politics
  • environment
  • healthcare
  • education
  • community action

Key Concepts

systemic illness collective responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What part of the world feels 'rotten' to you?
  • How can we confront widespread issues without feeling overwhelmed?
A Different Perspective

Denial can perpetuate the problem.

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